I want a title shot soon, insists Khan

Thursday 30 November 2006 15:52 BST

Amir Khan is keen to challenge for a title after nine professional fights.

The Olympic silver medallist, who faces France's Rachid Drilzane at London's ExCel Arena on Saturday week, warned: "They always say a boxer's first 10 fights are about learning the ropes and I feel ready to be let off the leash after this one.

"I want to start winning titles as soon as possible."

Drilzane, 28, has won 10 of his 13 fights, although none have come inside the distance.

Khan, who will be 20 the day before the fight, said: "I will not let him ruin my birthday. This year has been pretty special and it would be great to finish it the way I started it — with a first-round knockout."